Dunn-Edwards recently received the 2012 Manufacturing Leadership 100 award for Operational Excellence, by Manufacturing Executive. The company’s new LEED Gold-certified manufacturing facility was honored for its innovation and superiority in operational excellence for undertaking a project that transformed production processes and systems with an eye toward reducing costs and enhancing agility. Other winners in this category include IBM, Ford Motor Company, L’Oréal USA Inc., Michelin North America and Pella Corp.

Located in Phoenix, Ariz., United States, Dunn-Edwards’ 336,000-sq.-ft. facility was custom designed to be the greenest and most efficient in the coatings industry said the company.
“We have incorporated innovative, energy-efficient equipment and protocols, such as unique high-efficiency process equipment with integrated dust-suppression technology, so that no particulates are emitted to ambient air, and advanced wastewater recycling techniques to conserve water,” said Karl Altergott, CEO, Dunn-Edwards. “Our systems are classified as ultra-low discharge, meaning that waste generation is greatly minimized.”

“Now, with the new plant in full operation, we have greatly increased our capacity and are able to produce paint for third parties,” said Mark Alling, vice president of manufacturing, Dunn-Edwards. “This includes existing paint companies, private label brands and licensed product.”
Services offered include formulation and technical development, end-to-end commercialization process, inventory and logistic services, and custom labeling.

“Because our facility is so modern and efficient, we are able to produce paint faster and more consistently,” Alling said. “Our proven quality control measures ensure a superior product, and we have the flexibility to operate with customers’ challenges, such as short lead times and small batches.”